(SOLD) This is a c. 1942 Sheaffer Triumph Valiant Vac-filler Oversize "1250" fountain pen in striated Golden Brown celluloid, with a 14k gold, two-tone Lifetime Triumph F-M nib. The pen has been restored, which included a complete disassembly, a thorough cleaning, an overhaul of the filling mechanism, ink flow adjustment, nib tuning, and a gentle polish with a soft cloth (by hand). I work according to current "best practices" in pen restoration. In this case, I removed the old Sheaffer "packing" material and replaced it with modern high-quality equivalent. The mechanism now functions perfectly and will last many, many years before needing service. This is the largest model in the Triumph line-up, measuring around 5.15" capped and 0.48" in diameter.

The Triumph ink delivery system was Sheaffer's crowning achievement. Brought to market during World War II, the system was brilliant in its design and superb in its execution. A system comprising of an ink reservoir, large ebonite feed, and a wrap-around 14k gold nib, the system functions dependably and consistently, regardless of atmospheric conditions, ink, paper, or handwriting technique. A stunning feat of technology, its only rival over the years, the Parker 51 Aerometric, the system continues to functions extremely well. If you need a beautiful, durable, "workhorse" kind of pen, look no further.

The phrase I wrote comes from a speech made by Sheaffer's Chairman in 1942, shortly after the Triumph launched, where he attributed a large part of the company's success to its service department. It's amazing to think that pens were serviced within a day, promptly returned to their owners, who obviously needed to write with their fountain pens day in, day out.

In addition to being a great EDC pen, this Valiant is an instrument of rare beauty. Made of a gleaming, transparent celluloid, with a matching section (very rare!), and generous gold-filled trim, the pen looks so handsome that it would be fit perfectly alongside the modern Italian celluloid pens by Montegrappa and Visconti. The material has a deep, rich, vibrant color, with subtle gradations of yellows and browns, with excellent barrel transparency. You can watch the pen being filled and gauge remaining ink level with ease. The gold-filled trim is in equally great shape! The imprint is strong.

The nib most likely sold as a Medium, but I'd rank its line width to be close to a modern western medium-fine. It lays down a generous line of 0.5 mm, with excellent flow, and a very smooth sensation. The nib is firm, but feels soft on paper, thanks to its excellent vibration absorption properties. It's a huge chunk of gold, and it makes writing incredibly enjoyable. The sweet spot is large, and the nib writes effortless strokes in virtually all directions, allowing you to write a flowing cursive or precise print. If you need an XF line, flip the nib upside down - it was designed to have two writing surfaces. Speaking of which, the tipping geometry is perfect, as is alignment. The pen is large and posts beautifully. Truly, a fantastic, comfortable writer!